From July 13 to August 4, 2025, the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) will deploy approximately 600 personnel to participate in Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25 (Ex TS25), Australia’s largest multinational military exercise, hosted biennially and involving over 30,000 personnel from 19 nations. This year’s exercise, held across Australia and, for the first time, Papua New Guinea, marks Canada’s most significant deployment to the Indo-Pacific since the launch of Operation HORIZON. The Royal Canadian Navy (RCN) will contribute prominently, with HMCS Ville de Québec, a Halifax-class frigate, playing a central role in the naval component of the exercise.
Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25 is designed to enhance interoperability, test advanced operational capabilities, and strengthen military partnerships in complex, multinational environments. The RCN’s participation underscores Canada’s commitment to collective security and a free and open Indo-Pacific.
“The deployment of approximately 600 Canadian Armed Forces members, from the various elements of the Canadian Armed Forces to Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25 demonstrates our commitment to the Indo-Pacific,” said General Jennie Carignan, Chief of the Defence Staff. “This exercise will enable the Canadian Armed Forces to better respond to the rapidly evolving strategic environment by enhancing our capabilities and strengthening our military partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.”
HMCS Ville de Québec, which departed Halifax on April 7, 2025, for Operation HORIZON, will conduct live-fire naval exercises during Ex TS25, showcasing its advanced capabilities in maritime warfare. The frigate, equipped with a CH-148 Cyclone helicopter, will engage in joint maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime security operations alongside allied navies. Having previously operated with the UK Carrier Strike Group under Operation HIGHMAST in the Mediterranean, the ship’s crew is well-prepared for the high-tempo, multi-domain scenarios of TALISMAN SABRE.
The Honourable David J. McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, highlighted the strategic significance of Canada’s involvement: “This deployment highlights the Canadian Armed Forces’ expanding operational presence in the region and reflects our determination to improve interoperability with key allies and partners.” He added that Canada’s participation reaffirms its role as a “dependable and engaged contributor to collective security in the Indo-Pacific.”
Lieutenant-General Steve Boivin, Commander Canadian Joint Operations Command, emphasized the exercise’s importance: “The Canadian Armed Forces are proud to contribute its largest contingent ever to Exercise TALISMAN SABRE 25. Our participation in this exercise is a testament to our readiness and ability to operate alongside our international allies and partners, demonstrating we remain a strong and interoperable force.”